Manchester Police Investigate Disturbing Videos of Women Online

Authorities in Manchester are expressing serious concerns over a troubling trend involving voyeuristic videos of women being shared online without their consent. These videos, primarily uploaded to YouTube, have attracted hundreds of millions of views and are drawing outrage for their derogatory comments that objectify women.

The disturbing content depicts women socialising in popular areas such as Deansgate and Spinningfields, often while under the influence. The videos feature clips of unsuspecting women, many of whom are unaware they are being recorded. Some videos have amassed over 40 million views, with one channel alone collecting more than 300 million views within just three months of its creation.

According to the Manchester Evening News, these clips have sparked a wave of misogynistic comments from viewers. Women are being referred to in derogatory terms, including “dogs” and “easy to get.” Comments also mock their weight and appearance, contributing to a toxic online environment.

The Greater Manchester Police have encouraged victims of this behaviour to come forward. Deputy Mayor Kate Green described the videos and accompanying comments as “concerning,” highlighting the need for women to feel safe during nights out.

This trend first gained traction on TikTok several years ago but has since transitioned to YouTube. Notably, the videos encourage subscriptions under false pretenses, claiming to provide “exclusive nightlife coverage” and “hidden gems” in Manchester. The channel in question, which claims to be based in Pakistan, uses tactics to attract viewers while disregarding the privacy of the women featured.

The videos often depict young women going about their evening, with one particularly troubling clip showing two women on Deansgate, one adjusting her top. Comments include phrases like, “If it’s not for sale, don’t put it in the window,” and “Who let the dogs out?” Such remarks reflect a broader societal issue regarding the treatment of women in public spaces.

The police’s response has included ongoing monitoring of nightlife hotspots to ensure the safety of women in the city. Superintendent Stephen Wiggins stated, “It’s the kind of behaviour that can make women feel uncomfortable on a night out, and when it crosses the line of harassment, it becomes a criminal matter.”

In November 2022, a man was arrested on suspicion of voyeurism and harassment after similar videos were posted online. This marked a significant development in addressing the exploitation of women in nightlife settings, with the suspect currently on bail as investigations continue.

The troubling phenomenon is not limited to Manchester; similar videos have emerged in cities across the UK, including London, Liverpool, and Leeds. While recording individuals in public areas is not illegal, the police stress that women and girls should feel secure during their evenings out.

Greater Manchester Police are actively appealing for any incidents to be reported, emphasizing that while general behaviour may not constitute criminal activity, repeated unwanted conduct could escalate into harassment.

The Safer Streets programme, backed by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and the police, aims to enhance public safety for women and girls while reducing crime and antisocial behaviour. The initiative includes increased police presence in city centre locations during busy hours.

As the Manchester Evening News continues to investigate this matter, they also reached out to YouTube for comment. The platform has a privacy complaint procedure, allowing individuals to flag content that violates their privacy. However, only the person whose privacy has been breached can submit a complaint.

The emergence of these videos coincides with a renewed focus on addressing coercive and misogynistic behaviour in Greater Manchester, as emphasized by Mayor Andy Burnham. Deputy Mayor Kate Green reiterated that it is “never acceptable” for women to be filmed without consent while out enjoying their lives.

The ongoing discourse surrounding these videos highlights a crucial need for societal change in how women are perceived and treated, particularly in nightlife settings. As authorities work to combat this issue, the call for respect and safety for all individuals remains paramount.